TXNDC12 and GDF2 as genetically supported plasma proteins associated with knee osteoarthritis: evidence from Mendelian randomization and preliminary biological support
By
Xiangyu Hu
Hao Rao
Li Luo
Shuang Tao
Gang Wu
Hanqiao Sun
Chao Li
July 8, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Genetic Evidence Linking TXNDC12 and GDF2 Plasma Proteins to Knee Osteoarthritis: Insights from Mendelian Randomization and Initial Biological Validation
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Primary Knee Osteoarthritis (PKOA) Key Mechanisms Genetic associations with plasma proteins TXNDC12 and GDF2 linked to PKOA susceptibility. Target Population Individuals with knee osteoarthritis, particularly those over 40 years of age. Care Setting Clinical research and genetic epidemiology.
Key Highlights
TXNDC12 is associated with increased risk of PKOA (OR = 1.38). GDF2 is associated with reduced risk of PKOA (OR = 0.93). The study utilized a two-sample Mendelian randomization approach. Preliminary biological validation showed altered expression of TXNDC12 and GDF2 in PKOA model mice. Identified 21 functionally related genes through network analyses. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of PKOA should consider clinical presentation and imaging findings. Management
Current management primarily involves NSAIDs and symptomatic treatments. Monitoring & Follow-up
Monitor disease progression and treatment efficacy through clinical assessment. Risks
Prolonged dependence on symptomatic treatments may lead to increased healthcare costs and burden. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with primary knee osteoarthritis, especially those aged 40 and older.
Focus on identifying novel therapeutic targets beyond current symptomatic treatments.
Clinical Best Practices
Integrate genomic and proteomic data for biomarker discovery. Utilize Mendelian randomization to infer causal relationships in disease research. Conduct further validation studies for hypothesis-generating findings. Related Resources & Content
